How to find deleted files on sd card？

Losing files from an SD card can be frustrating, especially when they contain precious memories or important documents. Fortunately, several methods can help you find and recover deleted files. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on various techniques, including using built-in features, recovery software, and best practices for data recovery.

File Deletion on an SD Card

Before attempting to recover deleted files, it’s important to understand how file deletion works on an SD card. When a file is deleted, it isn’t immediately erased. Instead, the operating system marks the space as available for new data. If new data isn’t written to that space, recovery is often possible.

Common Reasons for File Deletion

Files on an SD card can be deleted for various reasons, including:

Accidental Deletion: Files can be unintentionally deleted during routine operations.

Formatting: Formatting the SD card erases its contents, but recovery may still be possible.

Corruption: Physical damage or logical errors can lead to lost files.

Malware: Viruses or malware can corrupt or delete files.

Preparing for Recovery

Stop Using the SD Card

As soon as you realize files are missing, stop using the SD card. Continuing to save new files can overwrite the space where the deleted files were stored, significantly reducing the chances of recovery.

Check for Backups

Before diving into recovery methods, check if you have backups of your SD card data. This could be in the form of cloud storage, external hard drives, or backup software.

Methods for Finding Deleted Files on an SD Card

Method 1: Check the Trash or Recycle Bin

When files are deleted on some systems, they may be moved to the Trash or Recycle Bin rather than permanently deleted. Here’s how to check:

Open Trash/Recycle Bin: Locate the Trash icon on your desktop (for Mac) or the Recycle Bin (for Windows).

Search for Files: Look for the deleted files. You can use the search function if you remember the file names.

Restore Files: If you find the files, right-click and select “Restore” to return them to their original location.

Method 2: Use File Recovery Software

If the files are not in the Trash, data recovery software can be highly effective in scanning your SD card for deleted files. Here’s how to use some popular options:

1. Panda Assistant

Panda Assistant is an innovative data recovery software designed to help users effortlessly recover lost or deleted files from various storage devices, including SD cards, external hard drives, and USB drives. With its user-friendly interface, Panda Assistant simplifies the recovery process, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned tech enthusiasts.

The software boasts powerful scanning capabilities, allowing users to delve deep into file systems to locate lost data. It supports a wide range of file formats, ensuring that photos, videos, documents, and more can be effectively recovered. One of its ultimate features is the preview function, which lets users view recoverable files before restoring them, enabling targeted recovery and saving time.

2. Recuva

Recuva is another popular tool that offers a user-friendly interface and effective recovery capabilities.

Download Recuva: Visit the Recuva website and download the software.

Install and Open: Follow the installation prompts to set it up.

Select the SD Card: In the interface, choose your SD card for scanning.

Scan for Deleted Files: Click on “Scan” to begin searching for deleted files.

Preview and Recover: After the scan, you can preview recoverable files. Select the files you want to restore and click “Recover.”

3. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard

EaseUS offers a free version that can recover up to 2GB of data.

Download EaseUS: Visit the EaseUS website and download the software.

Install and Launch: Install the software and open it.

Select the SD Card: Choose your SD card from the list of drives.

Scan for Lost Files: Click “Scan” to start searching for deleted files.

Review and Recover: Once the scan is complete, select the files you wish to recover and click “Recover.”

Method 3: Use Built-in macOS and Windows Features

Both macOS and Windows have built-in features that can help you find deleted files.

For macOS:

Use Finder: Open Finder and navigate to the SD card.

Search for Files: Use the search bar in the top right corner. You can filter by file type or date.

Check Backups: If you use Time Machine, you can restore files from a previous backup.

For Windows:

File History: If you have File History set up, navigate to the SD card, right-click, and select “Restore previous versions.”

Search Function: Use the search box in File Explorer to look for specific file names or extensions.

Method 4: Check for Hidden Files

Sometimes, files can become hidden rather than deleted. Here’s how to check for hidden files on your SD card:

On macOS:

Open Terminal: Go to Applications > Utilities > Terminal.

Use Command: Type defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles YES and press Enter.

Restart Finder: Type killall Finder and press Enter to restart Finder. Hidden files should now be visible.

On Windows:

Open File Explorer: Click on the View tab at the top.

Show Hidden Items: Check the box next to “Hidden items” to reveal any hidden files.

Method 5: Manual Inspection

Sometimes, files might not be deleted but misplaced. Explore your SD card thoroughly:

Open Folders: Navigate through different folders on your SD card.

Sort Files: Sort files by date to see if you can find any recent changes.

Check Different Devices: If you used the SD card in different devices, check those devices for file transfer or accidental deletion.

Method 6: Professional Recovery Services

If all else fails and the data is crucial, consider professional data recovery services. These services can be expensive but are often very effective in retrieving lost files, especially from damaged or corrupted SD cards.

Tips for Successful Data Recovery

Act Quickly: The sooner you attempt recovery after deletion, the better your chances of success.

Avoid Overwriting: Do not save new files to the SD card until you’ve attempted recovery.

Regular Backups: Regularly back up your data to prevent future loss. Use cloud storage or external drives for important files.

Use Read-Only Mode: If possible, set your SD card to read-only mode to prevent any accidental overwrites during the recovery process.